“The waves which grow and transform into a mountain represent Asian Pacific diverse natural environment - characteristically represented by the highest mountain peaks of the Himalayas ("the roof of the world") and the deepest ocean floor in the Sulu Sea.
Simultaneously, you see symbols of humans hand-in-hand progressively growing with the waves, leading to the peak of mountain top. This indicates a progressive movement towards great achievements only possible with the collective participation (and support) of all. The connection also represents unity in diversity, being that Asian Pacific region consists of a high degree of diverse cultures (represented by the 3 different colors for each human figure).